BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, N.J. – A 70-year-old man was charged after investigators determined three separate fires inside his home were intentionally set.
Authorities say George DiPierro was arrested Saturday afternoon after emergency crews responded to his Harbor Court residence for a report of a blaze.
Officials allege DiPierro ignited fires on both floors of the house before being taken into custody without incident.
Key Points
- George DiPierro, 70, of Berkeley Township, charged with three counts of aggravated arson
- Multiple fires discovered on both floors of a Harbor Court residence
- Investigators determined all three fires were intentionally set using an open flame
Fires discovered throughout home
According to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, first responders arrived around 12:15 p.m. and found smoke on the first floor and evidence of a fire that had already been extinguished. Firefighters then located two additional fires burning in separate upstairs bedrooms. All three were contained before spreading further.
Investigators from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Berkeley Township Police, Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, Fire Prevention Bureau, and the Sheriff’s Crime Scene Unit were called to the scene to determine the cause.
Investigation leads to arrest
The investigation found that each fire was intentionally started using an open flame and available combustibles. Detectives later identified DiPierro, who lived in the residence, as the individual responsible.
He was arrested on scene and taken to the Ocean County Jail, where he remains held pending a detention hearing.
Coordinated response
Officials credited the quick response of Berkeley Township firefighters and multiple investigative units for preventing the fires from spreading and for identifying the source. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office continues to oversee the case as DiPierro faces three counts of aggravated arson.
